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These 10 Dog Breeds Have Crazy Amounts of Energy

Rachel M.
by Rachel M.
Published:  July 29th, 2025

When choosing a dog, one of the most important factors to consider is energy level. Some breeds are natural athletes, built for speed, stamina, and constant movement.


These high-energy dogs thrive on physical and mental stimulation. Without it, they can quickly become bored and troublesome.


Here's a breakdown of the dog breeds that top the charts in terms of energy, perfect for anyone who’s an active runner, hiker, or someone looking for a seriously lively companion.

Border Collie - image via Canva

Table of contents

1. Border Collie

Often regarded as the most intelligent and energetic of all dog breeds, the Border Collie was bred for herding sheep and thrives on having a job to do. This breed is fast, agile, and hard to tire out. 

2. Australian Shepherd

Another herding breed, the Aussie combines intelligence with boundless energy. They’re known for their agility and drive, making them excellent companions for anyone who loves high-intensity sports and outdoor adventures.

3. Belgian Malinois

A favorite among police and military units worldwide, the Belgian Malinois is known for its drive, intensity, and athleticism. 

Belgian Malinois - image via Canva

4. Jack Russell Terrier

Don’t let their small size fool you. Jack Russells are compact powerhouses that were bred for fox hunting. They’re agile, tenacious, and often fearless, requiring lots of mental engagement to keep them from becoming destructive.

5. Siberian Husky

Bred to pull sleds across frozen tundras, Huskies are long-distance runners with enormous stamina. They are not suited for sedentary households and often require several miles of running, walking, and vigorous play to feel satisfied.

Vizsla - image via Canva

6. Vizsla

This Hungarian hunting dog is known for both its physical and emotional energy. Vizslas are affectionate, loyal, and always ready to go. They excel in hunting and endurance sports and don’t do well when left alone or inactive for long periods.

7. Weimaraner

Nicknamed the “Gray Ghost,” Weimaraners are sleek, athletic dogs with a constant need for motion. Originally bred for hunting large game, they need daily intense exercise and often thrive in active families or with a job to do.

8. Dalmatian

Dalmatians were historically used as carriage dogs, running alongside horse-drawn coaches for miles. This heritage gives them a natural endurance and love for activity.

9. German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile hunting breed that excels in both land and water. Known for their stamina and athleticism, they need constant exercise and enjoy retrieving, swimming, and exploring new terrain.

German Shorthaired Pointer - image via Canva

10. Labrador Retriever (Field Line)

While show-line Labradors can be calmer, field-bred Labs are working dogs at heart. They were developed for hunting and retrieving and require consistent physical activity to stay happy and healthy.

Final Thoughts

High-energy dog breeds can make exceptional companions for the right owner— someone who understands their drive and commits to meeting their physical and mental needs.


These dogs are definitely not couch potatoes. They want to work, play, and move. If you're considering one of these breeds, be prepared for daily adventures, consistent training, and a deeply rewarding bond with a dog who’s always ready to go.


Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Rachel M.
Rachel M.

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Can Dogs Really Tell Time?

You might have noticed your dog waiting by the door just before you get home, or staring at their food bowl exactly when dinner should be served. It’s almost as if they can read the clock - but can dogs really tell time?Well, not exactly in the way humans do. Dogs can’t glance at a wall clock or count the hours, but they do have an impressive sense of timing - one that’s rooted in routine, body rhythms, and environmental cues. Let’s take a closer look at what science (and real-life dog behavior) tells us.Dogs and the Rhythm of RoutineDogs thrive on routine. They may not know it’s 7:00 PM, but they do know what 7:00 PM feels like. Their internal sense of time is shaped by:Habitual patterns (waking, eating, walking, sleeping)Biological rhythms (like hunger or energy cycles)Environmental changes (shifting light, temperature, or sounds)So when your dog waits at the window just before you return from work, it’s not because they’ve checked the time - it’s because their body has learned the rhythm of your schedule. Over time, their brain connects environmental clues and physical sensations with your arrival.The Power of Scent and SoundDogs also rely heavily on scent and sound to track time.As strange as it sounds, some scientists believe dogs might use the fading of your scent in the house as a marker of how long you’ve been gone. The longer you’re away, the weaker your scent - helping your dog estimate the passage of time.They’re also sensitive to audio cues: the rumble of a familiar car engine, footsteps in the hallway, or even the click of a neighbor’s routine can signal what’s about to happen.Do Dogs Understand “Later” or “Soon”?Dogs don’t think about time in the abstract the way we do - they live very much in the moment. So while your dog may understand that a certain cue (like you grabbing the leash) means something is about to happen, they probably don’t understand “in five minutes” or “after dinner” the way a child might.

Why Does My Dog Walk the Fence Line?

Protectively patrolling the perimeter or just looking for a lucky break?

What To Expect as a First-Time Dog Parent

Are you planning on bringing a dog into your family for the first time? That’s awesome! But before you do, it’s wise to learn about the things you should expect as a dog parent. These pets need a lot of care and attention, so you’ll want to know what you’re getting into.

How to Safely Introduce Young Kids to Old Dogs

(photo credit: Skydive Erick / shutterstock.com)Whether you share space with an older dog or have chosen to adopt a senior pet (congrats, on that!), introducing kids to your pooch for the first time isn’t as easy as opening the front door and declaring “he loves everybody”. Because when it comes to new experiences, not all dogs react in a positive manner. Particularly as they age and have less tolerance for noise, activity, and uninvited cuddles.So, how do you facilitate a positive meet-and-greet – whether it’s to be a long-term relationship or just a short visit with the kiddos?Well, it takes effort on both parts – not just your dog’s – and the rewards of patiently winning over a cautious pooch are exponentially positive for kids.How to Prep An Older Dog to Meet a Younger ChildThe introduction of new faces to older dogs can be a challenge – especially when high-energy activity is involved. Ideally, it should be done on neutral ground versus his home turf where he may be inclined to feel protective. And scent can be a good way to help familiarize your pet with a visiting child. If time permits, offering him a soft toy or piece of the child’s clothing in advance of the arrival will help when the meet-up happens.

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